floatiE — Zaw Aung

floatiE is an electric inflatable float, specifically designed for blind and visually impaired kids. The inspiration for this project stemmed from the conversation with a camp counselor who organizes the summer camp for blind kids. Due to logistics and safety issues, the opportunity to participate in water activities are very limited for these kids. To provide easy, convenient and independent navigation on the water, an affordable electric powered inflatable with straight heading correction was designed and built based on an inflatable pool float.

The float can travel at 2.1mph with 150lb payload and has operation time of 42 minutes at max speed. The total part cost of floatiE is $270.41.

Please browse through the images to learn more about this project.

The ubiquitous pool float is used to keep the cost low and appeal to the kids

The float is powered by two thrusters with differential steering. Electronics and Battery enclosure is embedded inside the float. Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) is used to measure the heading angle of the float and PID control loop is applied to adjust the thrust accordingly to keep the float on the heading angle.

The thruster design is based on a RC boat propeller and Marin 37 nozzle is incorporated for increased efficiency and safety. More than 20% increase in thrust is measured by shrouding the propeller with the nozzle.

Thruster is designed to be easily removable for storage, repair or replacement.

Thruster Mount plate installed on the float

FEA analysis on the thruster’s stator is performed to ensure the arms can withstand the torque and force.

Fatigue analysis is also performed using S-N curve of 3D printed Material ABS data. 3D printed stator is expected to last about 200 hours under maximum load condition.

Electronic and Battery Enclosure

Electronic Components: Arduino Nano, MPU9250, Transceiver Module, Electronic Speed Controllers, 12V SLA Battery.

MDF Mold for Vacuum formed ABS Enclosure

Vacuum forming the enclosure

Wireless Remote has four directional momentary buttons for Forward, Reverse, Left and Right. Buttons are different sizes and textures to be easily distinguishable by blind kids.

Ultrasonic sensor is installed on the front of the float to detect obstacles. The system alerts the kid by playing a buzzer tone when an obstacle is detected. The sensor has maximum 6 degree angle of detection. To increase the angle of detection , the sensor will be mounted on a servo in the future.